10.28.2012

No one who was there for field day at
Worthington, Ohio’s, Colonial Hills Elementary School will ever forget
the great race. It wasn’t about who placed first or second; it was about
grit, determination, support, and sensitivity. Among the eager fifth-
and sixth-graders who lined up for the 400-meter event was Matt, who
suffers from spastic cerebral palsy, a debilitating condition that
limits his mobility and physical exertion. But Matt had determined he
would run that race.

By the time he was halfway around the
course, his classmates were passing him on their second and final lap.
His physical education teacher joined Matt on the field to encourage him
as he struggled on. He had bursts of energy and moments of near
collapse. But Matt kept going with the determination of a champion. His
mother cried with joy at his courage and resolve as his classmates began
to cheer, "Let’s go, Matt! Let’s go!”1

He did. And as he crossed the finish
line, every hand flew to the air signaling victory. Matt’s finish would
stand in memory as the greatest race that day.

We can learn a lot from Matt and those who gathered around him.

We can learn about facing our
challenges and pushing on, living our dreams and having the courage to
try and keep trying. We can learn about kindness and support from those
who run with us, no matter the pace of life.

We are better people when we are
there for others—lifting them, helping them, and sharing with them the
sweetness of their dreams and their personal victories. And while it’s
true that those for whom you cheer will be blessed by your support, it’s
equally true that your caring relationship with them will be a blessing
to you as well.